Umtiti's Barca deal includes a £54million release clause that is unlikely to dissuade a potential buyer like United and the France international gave a carefully worded interview to confirm their interest.

"It’s not only Manchester United," Umtiti told Canal FC. "Other clubs want me as well, but my sole focus is on Barcelona. It was my dream to play at Barça. And I achieved it when I was just 22. I’m very happy here, whenever I play and whenever I train.

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"Negotiations for a contract renewal have not started yet. My release clause is low, but that’s not what I worry about, I focus on the pitch."

United will be wary of Umtiti's tactic, having seen a number of Spain-based players earn pay rises amid their interest. Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale, Sergio Ramos and Neymar all received new contracts after United registered their interest while other players have fabricated an approach by United to obtain a salary increase.

Antoine Griezmann also inked a new contract after he rejected United to stay at Atletico Madrid last year and Mesut Ozil became Arsenal's highest earner in the wake of their decision to sign Alexis Sanchez over him in January.